If you think Wisconsin is just cheese curds and football, think again.
This is a state where rugged natural beauty meets refined hospitality, where small-town charm collides with world-class experiences. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of a guided fishing tour, sipping craft beer in a retro lounge, or standing in awe beneath the towering pines of Peninsula State Park, Wisconsin delivers a dream vacation that’s equal parts adventure and indulgence. This itinerary, crafted for the discerning traveler, is your passport to the best the Badger State has to offer.
Start Strong: Hotel Northland, Green Bay
Begin your journey in Green Bay at the historic Hotel Northland, Autograph Collection. This 4-star gem blends vintage elegance with modern comfort. It’s the kind of place where you can kick off your boots and relax in style. The hotel’s continental and American breakfast options fuel your day, while the on-site fitness center, shared lounge, restaurant, and bar offer everything you need to unwind after a day of exploring.
Lambeau Field Atrium & Packers Hall of Fame
No trip to Green Bay is complete without a pilgrimage to Lambeau Field, recently crowned a Wonder of Wisconsin. The Packers Hall of Fame is more than a museum—it’s a shrine to grit, glory, and gridiron greatness. With dynamic displays and interactive exhibits, you’ll trace the team’s journey from humble beginnings, to Super Bowl dominance. Sit at Vince Lombardi’s desk, and the view homages to some of the greats in the sport. Our tour guide regaled us with how Lombardi saved the Packers, to make them one of football’s most venerated franchises. Of course, on the tour you get to stand next to (but never on top of!) the field, to experience close-up, what it’s like to be in the presence of legends.
Dinner at Hinterland Brewery
Right next to Lambeau Field, Hinterland Brewery is where culinary innovation meets casual cool. This isn’t your average pub fare. Hinterland’s chefs craft contemporary American cuisine with multicultural flair, building daily menus around fresh produce, meat, and seafood. The vibe is upscale yet approachable, perfect for a post-game meal or a night out with friends. Expect bold flavors, creative plating, and a dining experience that rivals any big-city hotspot.
Road Trip: Door County Bound
From Green Bay, hit the road for a scenic drive to Door County—about an hour and a half of winding roads, lake views, and locals shops that dot the landscape. This peninsula is Wisconsin’s crown jewel, offering a blend of natural beauty, artisanal eats, and laid-back luxury.
Lunch at Melt Bistro (Renard’s Cheese), Sturgeon Bay
Your first stop in Door County is Melt Bistro. This family-owned, third-generation cheese haven serves up artisan cheese, squeaky-fresh curds, homemade sausage, and specialty foods. It’s a delicious introduction to Wisconsin’s dairy heritage, and the bistro’s cozy atmosphere makes it a perfect midday pit stop. (Try their full menu of smoothies for a sweet delicious treat)
Tower at Potawatomi State Park
Stretch your legs at Potawatomi State Park, a 1,200-acre expanse of rugged limestone cliffs and steep slopes. Named after the Bo-De-Wad-Me tribe—“keeper of the fire”—this park offers panoramic views of Sturgeon Bay from its scenic tower. Whether you’re hiking, snapping photos, or simply soaking in the serenity, Potawatomi is a reminder of Wisconsin’s wild side.
Bridge Up Brewing Company
Located below Sonny’s Pizzeria in Sturgeon Bay, Bridge Up Brewing Company is a small-batch craft brewery with big personality. Brewed with local ingredients, their beers are as distinctive as the décor—think retro couches, jukeboxes, and pop culture tchotchkes. It’s a blast from the past with a modern twist.
The Flats on Church Street, Egg Harbor
Settle in for the night at The Flats on Church Street in Egg Harbor, operated by DoCo Vacations. This three-bedroom apartment feels like a Four Seasons suite with the warmth of home. Gorgeously decorated and spotlessly clean, it’s just a two-minute walk from the local tourist strip, packed with stores, bars, restaurants, and waterfront views. Inside, you’ll find a stocked library, wide open shower space, all your kitchen needs, professional laundry facilities, and quality linens. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to extend your stay—or move in permanently.
3-Hour Guided Fishing Tour with Captain Dale Stroschein
Rise early for a guided fishing tour with Captain Dale, a legend in Wisconsin’s angling world. With over 30 years of experience, 15 years on the Walleye Tournament Circuit, and a spot in the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame, Dale is the real deal. His attention to detail and passion for the sport make every outing unforgettable. We reeled in six bass between us, but the real catch was Dale’s engaging storytelling and infectious enthusiasm.
Wisconsin Cheese Masters
Next, head to Wisconsin Cheese Masters, where exclusive selections from Master, Artisan, and Farmstead cheese makers await. These cheeses are nearly impossible to find outside the state, making this stop a must for any foodie. The curated collections showcase the best of Wisconsin’s dairy craftsmanship, offering flavors and textures that redefine what cheese can be.
Eagle Tower at Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek
Peninsula State Park is a 3,776-acre playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Established in 1909, it offers hiking, biking, boating, fishing, golfing, and swimming in the warmer months, and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, and snowmobiling in winter. Eagle Tower provides sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, while the Lighthouse walk adds a touch of maritime charm. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or tranquility, this park delivers.
Breakfast at Door County Coffee & Tea Co., Sturgeon Bay
Start your morning at Door County Coffee & Tea Co., a family-owned roaster serving homemade breakfast, bakery treats, and lunch. The aroma alone is worth the visit, but the food seals the deal. It’s a cozy spot to fuel up before your final stretch.
Lunch at Cedar & Sage Grill House, Green Bay
Back in Green Bay, stop for lunch at Cedar & Sage Grill House. This restaurant celebrates locally sourced meats and produce with Indigenous-inspired flavors. The menu is thoughtful and bold, offering a culinary experience that’s both rooted in tradition and refreshingly modern.
Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary
Before you wrap up your trip, visit the Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary. This urban refuge is home to rescued animals, walking trails, and educational exhibits. It’s a peaceful place to reflect on your journey and connect with nature one last time.
Farmers’ Market on Broadway
End your Wisconsin adventure with a stroll through the Farmers’ Market on Broadway. Held in downtown Green Bay, this vibrant market features local produce, handmade goods, live music, and community spirit. It’s the perfect place to grab a few souvenirs—or just soak in the local flavor.
Final Thoughts
From the hallowed halls of Lambeau Field to the quiet majesty of Peninsula State Park, this itinerary offers a masterclass in Midwestern magic. It’s a trip that feeds your soul, fills your belly, and leaves you with stories worth telling. So pack your bags, charge your phone, and get ready to discover why Wisconsin deserves a spot on every man’s travel bucket list.